Blog

February 15, 2017

One of our most popular procedures, breast augmentation with implants, has also been one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. for a couple decades now. There are some very good reasons why. Not only do breast implants improve the cup size, shape and overall appearance of a woman’s breasts, they can also help boost self-esteem, body image and sexual satisfaction.

Interestingly there are also some long-standing myths and misconceptions about breast implants. A lot of this misinformation and conjecture is floating around on the Internet from what seems to be “reliable” sources. For someone who may be interested in breast augmentation, it can be hard to separate the facts from the hype.

That’s why we’ve compiled what we believe are some of the biggest myths about breast implants, along with the facts about each of these ideas. We’re addressing seven myths here. This way you can make a well-informed decision about whether breast implants are right for you. There are other myths as well, but certainly the ones we’re covering here are some of the most persistent.

1.) Breast implants cause breast cancer.

False. There is no medical evidence to show that women with breast implants have a higher chance of developing breast cancer or autoimmune diseases. Rigorous studies done all over the world have consistently proven that both saline and silicone implants are safe. However, women with breast implants should still continue to get their annual breast exams and mammograms, and regularly self-examine their breasts for lumps and changes.

2.) New mothers cannot breast-feed if they had breast implants.

False. When breast implants are inserted under the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle, they do not normally interfere with breastfeeding. Furthermore, researchers have consistently found there are not higher silicone levels or the presence of any other harmful chemicals in the breast milk from women with breast implants.

3.) Implants must be replaced every 5 to 10 years.

False.Breast implants do not need to be replaced unless a problem emerges (such as a rupture in the shell). Many of our patients have had their implants for 20 years or longer. As long as the implants are soft and the woman is happy with how they look, there is no reason to replace them.

4.) Recovery from breast augmentation surgery is long and painful.

False. While the length of time it takes to recover from breast augmentation surgery varies from patient to patient, the majority of patients are mobile and able to care for themselves within two days following the procedure, and able to return to work within five to seven days. Pain is generally very manageable with rest and pain relievers. Most women wear a surgical bra for the first week for extra support, and then a sports bra for a few weeks after that.

5.) Breast cancer is harder to detect in women with breast implants.

False. Breast self-examinations are not normally anymore difficult, since all of a woman’s breast tissue normally lies above the implant. It may even be simpler, since the implants tend to push breast tissue away from the body, which can make it easier to feel a lump. On the other hand, mammography may be more of a challenge. Still, an experienced radiologist will be able to appropriately account for a woman’s breast implants and do an accurate examination. Usually that entails taking additional mammogram views that displace the breast tissue away from the implant.

6.) Saline breast implants are safer than silicone ones.

False. Both silicone-filled and saline-filled implants have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, patients who have had both types generally prefer the look and feel of silicone implants over saline implants.

7.) A woman’s breasts will sag more and at a younger age if she has breast implants.

False. Breasts sag due to gravity, weight and the loss of collagen and elastin, the structural proteins which keep the skin firm and taut. Over time, a woman’s breasts will lose their perkiness, whether she has breast implants or not. It is true that implants can add some weight to the breast, and this can increase the rate of sagging. However, the implants and surrounding scar tissue may actually provide some additional internal support to the breasts, preventing them from sagging as much.

If you are interested in breast augmentation in the Atlanta area, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Deutsch has the knowledge and expertise to provide the results you desire. So if you’ve ever dreamed about having fuller, more voluptuous breasts, don’t wait any longer. Please contact Perimeter Plastic Surgery to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Deutsch.